Sophie Leterme

Professor Sophie Leterme is a Matthew Flinders Professor in Earth Sciences at Flinders University's College of Science and Engineering. She leads the Biofilm Research & Innovation Consortium and directs an ARC Industry Transformation Training Centre for Biofilm Research & Innovation. Her research focuses on biofilms, biofouling in desalination systems, microbial communities, and microplastic pollution. She holds a PhD in Marine Biology from the University of Plymouth (UK) and has extensive industry collaborations through grants like the ARC ITTC (2023–2028).

• Education: PhD in Marine Biology (2006), Master in Biological Oceanography (2003), BSc Biology (2000)
• Research Interests: Biofilm dynamics, plankton ecology, salinity impacts, and environmental restoration
• Awards: Visiting Professorships (France/China), ACSR-YSEP Fellowship, MNF sea time

Her work bridges academia and industry, addressing challenges in desalination, marine coatings, and microplastic mitigation. She supervises PhD students in biofilm innovation and has secured over AUD 10M in grants since 2010.